The controversy of, “early admissions to schools,” has been raging for years. Some people think it’s wrong because it’s unorthodox. Others think early entry to colleges, meaning entering college before finishing high school, can only have positive effects. No, I don’t believe early admissions to colleges should stop for a variety of reasons. First, people deserve to be happy; no one should stop you from trying to create your happy future. If you think you’re ready and have the emotional strength and intelligence, you should go ahead and apply to college. Next, if you happen to be extremely smart, teachers should be encouraging you, not denying you an opportunity. Intelligent people shouldn’t have their goals limited even if they haven’t completed high school. Lastly, colleges should allow early admissions despite the possibility of competition between the “Veterans” and the “Newbies” (arriving students). Life is all about challenges and it’s better to face your fears earlier in life in order to gain experience.

          After I read both sides of the story, I determined that Parker Beverage from Colby College was right. “Applying early tells colleges how much they want to attend a particular school. This kind of enthusiasm can help distinguish an applicant.” Those were the words of Parker while discussing the topic. These sentences grab me because they’re exactly what I want to hear. Excited students show schools how much they really want to be involved in their program. I know for a fact, that colleges would much rather have enthusiastic students than scared or shy students. It’s good to know that some school figures agree with the idea. Parker’s side of the story really convinced me to believe that he was right in all instances.

          Out of all the Core Democratic Values, I thought the Pursuit of Happiness was the most related to this topic for a few reasons. The first reason is because everyone has the right to be happy no matter what, even if it means moving up to college early. Nothing should stop you from reaching your goals. In addition, if you’re stuck in high school, wasting your time with things you already know, and you hate it, there shouldn’t be rules limiting your dreams. You could already be in college, making a plan for life and helping others in the process, but instead you’re listening to a broken record player. Schools and parents should respect the individual right of the Pursuit of Happiness and let students move on.

          Now it’s time to do a little time traveling. We’re going back to the Civil War, the bloodiest war ever fought. The 54th Regiment, an all black regiment, the most famous regiment, and at the same time the most hated regiment. Still, they’re remembered for their bravery, strength, and will- power. They entered the army ready to fight, but the higher authority wouldn’t let them enter battle even though they were fit for warfare. Finally, people began to see the skill of the 54th , despite the color of their skin. This is the same situation intelligent students are dealing with nowadays. They have the experience, but people keep holding them back. Hopefully some day, students around the country will be able to be admitted to any college, anywhere, no matter how ill-experienced they are. It’s all about seeing the true colors of a student (or in some cases, a soldier).

          In conclusion, I still believe that early admissions to colleges shouldn’t end. It’s unfair to the student and even the community. The faster the intelligent are out and about in the world, the sooner our disputes and problems will be solved.